Sports Minister Congratulates Sensational Bolt

Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, described tonight’s 100 metres World Record performance by Usain Bolt at the Beijing Olympics, as phenomenal and declared that the sprinter had ignited the passions of the Jamaican people by delivering the elusive gong. Minister Grange was on hand at the Bird’s Nest to congratulate the sprinting hero, after he devastated a quality field to win hands down in a new World Record time of 9.69 seconds.
Bolt, who looked the consummate picture of composure and confidence going into the finals, performing several popular Jamaican dance moves in the blocks, gave Jamaica its first 100 metres victory in its 60-year Olympic history.
Minister Grange said Bolt’s performance was testimony to the results that can be achieved through dedication and hard work. She added: “I congratulate Usain and expect that he will continue to excel because he is committed to his sport and himself. We now look forward to his performances in the 200 metres as we believe that he will return another stellar performance.”
She had words of encouragement for Jamaica’s former World Record holder, Asafa Powell, who finished down the track in fifth place in 9.95 seconds. She told him: “I know you are disappointed but you have done Jamaica proud over the years and we will always salute you. It is never easy when you don’t meet your own expectations but we are still solidly behind you because you have proven yourself time and again.”
She congratulated Michael Frater who finished in sixth place with a personal best time of 9.97 seconds.
The Minister met the athletes as they were leaving the track and also had kind words for Richard Thompson of Trinidad and Tobago, who finished second and American Walter Dix who placed third.
Attention now turns to the women’s 100 metres semi-final and final tomorrow night when Jamaica is expected to deliver medal winning performances. Kerron Stewart, Shelly Ann Fraser and Sherone Simpson all advanced comfortably to the semis.
Minister Grange said Jamaica was still on course to return its best Olympics performance, despite not winning a silver medal tonight. “I believe we are still going to do very well. These major championships always throw some surprises but I know that we have a quality team here in Beijing and I am confident they will deliver.”